Within a gospel community, Christ wants us to decide our gray areas with others in mind. 1. My viewpoint is not enough, I need yours. An action of mine, which would not be a sin in itself, could still become a sin for me to do if it harms another. I recognize that my own knowledge/beliefs are limited, and therefore cannot be the sole factor in my decisions within a gospel community. I must add my care for others and re-calculate what I should do. (v.1-6) 2. We must care for the tender ones. At those times when I, as an unaccompanied individual person, would have the right and privilege to proceed, I, as a member of the family of God, will pause to re-consider how the circumstances impact my brother or sister who is more prone to concerns and a sense of guilt. (v.7-11) 3. We are all tied to Christ. Whenever I sin against brothers and sisters, I sin against Christ! Accordingly, in the gray areas I will be lovingly careful to weigh the impact of my actions on everyone around me. (v.12-13) Applying: In what ways does the church reflect unity, not selfishness? How connected are knowing and loving? 1 John 4:7-8 Eph. 4:15 Who is burdened by a sense of guilt? Romans 14:23 Against whom are we sinning if we hurt others? Mt. 18:6 & 25:40
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The Rev. Benjamin J. Snodgrass has been Pastor at Falls Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, since October, 2004. He graduated from Westminster Seminary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and previously served at Grace Fellowship OPC in the Germantown area of...
